Adjustable hands-free mounting apparatus and subcombinations for holding tablet pcs and other devices in various environments

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to an apparatus for adjustably mounting a tablet PC or other electronic device for hands-free emplacement in a diverse range of environments. This continuation-in-part application emphasizes varieties of a subcombination apparatus that provides integrated mounting and adjusting means for use either with the present invention or with separate unspecified other devices and objects. The apparatus of the present invention attaches to various surfaces via a mounting means comprising an adjustable suction cup connected to hanger rotatable in multiple dimensions wherein the movement of adjustable parts is regulated by built-in, easily-reversible locking mechanisms. The invention, used with or without the present subcombination apparatuses, enables stable and precise positioning of personal electronic devices in almost any situation where rapid, impromptu, or reversible deployment is desired.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims the prioritybenefit of, pending U.S. application Ser. No. 13/220,309 filed Aug. 29,2011, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an apparatus for adjustably mounting atablet PC or other personal electronic device for hands-free emplacementin a diverse range of environments. More particularly, the apparatus ofthe present invention attaches to various surfaces via a mounting meansthat is flexibly connected to a separately adjustable frame for holdinga tablet PC, where the ultimate emplacement of the tablet PC is finelyregulated via multiple, independently adjustable features of theapparatus. The apparatus enables stable and precise positioning of anytablet PC on even the most unsteady and irregular substrates, providingexceptional utility during vehicular travel, outdoor events, naturaldisasters, and in any public or private setting even under harshenvironmental conditions. This particular continuation in partapplication emphasizes varieties of a subcombination apparatus thatprovides integrated mounting and adjusting means for use with the frameof the present invention or in combination with other distinctapparatuses.

2. Description of the Related Art

The following review of related art is intended to provide edifyingexamples of problems and pitfalls in the design and use of personalcomputer mounting apparatuses. No admission is made that any reference,including any patent or patent document, cited in this specificationconstitutes prior art with respect to the present invention. Applicantreserves the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinence of any ofthe documents cited herein.

The “tablet PC” is a portable personal computer (PPC) generallycharacterized by a prominent touch-screen interface and a thinrectangular geometry that is rapidly becoming the preferred personaldigital accessory (PDA) among consumers. Tablet PCs emphasize thecapacity for powerful full-range personal computing and necessarilypossess larger dimensions and heavier weights than prior PDAs, whichgenerally comprise cellular phones, music players, digital cameras, orGPS navigators. The PDAs in the prior art prioritize their respectiveconsumer electronics functions and marginalize personal computingcapacity, placing a premium on achieving miniaturization rather thanversatility. Although these distinctions are merely trends and notrules, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention,they are manifested in the failure of prior art PDA mounting devices toaccommodate the substantially greater bulk and weight of tablet PCs.Prior art mounting apparatuses are too fragile for, too unstable for,and fundamentally incompatible with tablet PCs and related PPCs.

A popular solution to the mounting requirements of tablet PCs in astationary environment on a horizontal surface is disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 7,969,732 to Noble. The Noble device comprises a groove in apedestal which receives an edge of a tablet PC, holding it upright byaction of gravity alone. Although convenient and rapidly assembled, theNoble device provides no stabilizing function to hold the mounted tabletPC in a moving environment, i.e., during travel, or upon anon-horizontal surface. U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,135 to Yamada presents asimilar tablet stand concept having an adjustable angle of support, butwhich is still susceptible to dislodgment during travel-associatedmovement.

The particular difficulty of mounting a tablet PC in a moving vehicle isexpressed in the elaborate solution proposed in U.S. Pat. App. No.2011/0114686 to Franzi. The Franzi invention resembles a child safetychair, occupying an entire passenger seat in a vehicle, having aswiveling armature for bolting or engaging the back of a tablet PC orother portable computer. Although secure against lateral motion andhard-braking, the Franzi invention occupies an excessive amount of spaceinside the travel compartment and requires a driver to look away fromthe road in order to view the screen.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,861,985 to Galvin discloses an apparatus for securingsmall, lightweight PDAs to various surfaces, the apparatus comprising amounting means in the form of a common spring clip that is in turnconnected by a flexible gooseneck to a universal belt clip that attachesto the PDA. Although the Galvin invention is heralded as a travelaccessory, the security of the mounting attachment is dependent upon thegrip of the spring clip, which is notorious for slipping off of surfacesunless the surfaces possess precisely square, non-slippery, protrudingedges less than about 2-3 inches wide. Such surfaces are rarely presentinside automobiles, airplanes, buses, and most other common means oftravel. Instead, the Galvin invention in practice must be clipped to thecurvy plastic surfaces of dashboards, consoles, meal trays, or arm-restswhich are almost always coated in some form of slippery organic solventor substance and further destabilized by vibration and turbulence duringtravel. Another drawback of this invention is the obtrusiveness of thelong gooseneck, which not only acts as a lever, placing greaterdestabilizing force upon the spring clip in proportion to the weight ofthe PDA mounted on its proximal end, but which also is not adjustablelengthwise, and therefore becomes an inconvenient obstacle, preventingaccess to the area behind the mounted computer and intruding undesirablyinto the interior of the cabin or space occupied by a traveling user.The Galvin device and the numerous related prior art devices discussedin the Galvin disclosure may be suitable for holding small music playersor smart phones, but they cannot be reliably used for mounting arelatively large and heavy tablet PC of the types that predominate inthe marketplace today, particularly inside a car or other movingvehicle.

Clips or frames attached directly to suction cups are the predominantmethod for reversibly mounting PDAs including GPS navigation devices inautomobiles, and on non-horizontal surfaces. U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No.2011/0073743 to Shamie describes a device virtually identical to theGalvin device except the spring clip has been replaced with a suctioncup. U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2010/0274483 to Wikel describes a suctioncup that attaches to the inside of the windshield or to the top surfaceof a dashboard, accommodating a PDA via a connector adjacent to thesuction cup. Neither of these prior art devices are suitable for holdinga tablet PC because of its relatively large width and heavy weightcompared to GPS devices and smart phones. With regard to travel use, theinterior slope of the windshield in most cars limits the size of amounted device to 3-4 inches if mounted above the dashboard, and theheavy weight of a tablet PC will overcome the strength of any gooseneckarm if extended horizontally away from the windshield into the passengerarea beyond the dashboard.

Scant incentives exist for promoting the development of greater weightand size capacities in existing dashboard clips and windshield suctioncup devices for good reason, because the bulk of heavier, larger devicessuch as tablet PCs would obscure a significant portion of a driver'sview through the windshield, and when such bulky devices are extended bya gooseneck or other arm several inches into the passenger compartmentin order to space them sufficiently far away from the windshield thatthey can present their screens vertically, they become a distracting andpotentially dangerous physical obstruction. Consequently, most largerPPCs and video screens are installed permanently, and not removeably, inthe center consoles of a dashboard, rear panels of a seatback, or panelsattached to the ceiling.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,894,003 to Chang exemplifies the permanently mountedtype of apparatus that is commonly used to hold computer devices andscreens in the ceiling or seat-backs of vehicles ranging fromautomobiles to airplanes. Unfortunately, the Chang device and itsrelated inventions are not adapted for portability or for reversibleassembly, and therefore they are not amenable to a traveler who desiresto quickly remove the screen and hardware components when exiting avehicle or to quickly install them upon entering a vehicle. Furthermore,these mounting devices are not particularly suitable for touch-screencontrol since they are mounted overhead, beyond the comfortable reach ofa seated person, or alternatively when they are mounted in a seatback,excluding access from the driver's seat and front passenger seat of acar, which is where the majority of consumers would prefer to haveaccess to their tablet PCs while traveling.

Suction cup mounting devices which suspend any electronic device infront of a windshield present particular hazards to the passengers ofthe vehicle in the event of an accident. For example, U.S. Pat. No.7,857,268 to Chiu provides a robust mounting apparatus for PDAs thatcontains a rigid metal frame suspended in a windshield by two suctioncups. Not only does the Chiu invention significantly obstruct the viewthrough the windshield, but also it represents a grave hazard if anyaccident should occur that resulted in the shattering of the windshield,which would dislodge the heavy metal mounting device and send it hurlingthrough the passenger compartment at head-level.

As a result of the shortfalls in the prior art, an unmet need exists foran apparatus that permits the rapid, convenient, versatile, and finelyadjustable emplacement of PPCs in diverse environments to enableconvenient and reliable operation during travel, fieldwork, rescueoperations, and other endeavors where a stable desklike surface is notlikely to be available and where alternation between locations isexpected. Any satisfactory solution to this unmet need requires that thescreen of a tablet PC be positionable in a substantially stable andaccessible orientation regardless of the underlying substrate. Inparticular, a user traveling in the passenger compartment of a vehiclemust be able to view and manipulate the graphical user interface (GUI)of the tablet PC screen while seated and facing forward. The solution tothis unmet need must provide a mounting apparatus that resists thedestabilizing effects of turbulence, vibrations, lateral movement, andother disruptions without being so massive as to significantly impede adriver's view through a windshield, increase the clutter of acompartment, or obstruct the accessibility of an area. The idealapparatus should be, in some embodiments, easily reversibly mountable sothat a user can quickly move from one location or vehicle to another,while in other embodiments the mounting means should emphasize strengthand permanence.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention satisfies the needs described above. Thisinvention provides an apparatus for adjustable mounting and emplacementof tablet PCs and other PPCs in any location. The apparatus can beconfigured to securely hold all commercially available tablet PCs and isnot limited in applicability to any particular types of mountingsubstrates or conditions. In its most basic conceptualization, theinvention comprises (1) a mounting means for attachment to varioussurfaces, flexibly connected to (2) an adjustably positionable frame forholding a tablet PC in a desired orientation. The flexible relationshipbetween a dedicated mounting means and an independently positionableframe enhances the precision and security by which a tablet PC can bereversibly installed upon non-horizontal surfaces. The apparatus of thepresent invention thus enables the optimized emplacement of a tablet PCpermanently or temporarily in any space, no matter how confined orirregular, making it exceptionally well-suited for use during travel inmoving vehicles, participation in rigorous activities, reliability inrugged conditions, and adaptability to unforeseen circumstances.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a suction cupassembly as the mounting means connected to a rigging from whichadjustable-length cordage descends to the top edge of a rectangularframe. The cordage suspends the frame vertically, while the frame holdsa tablet PC between opposing lateral ledges or clips, such that thetablet PC touch screen is presented and maintained in an upright,forward-facing, unobstructed orientation. A user of the apparatusadjusts the cordage to regulate the distance between the mounting meansand the frame to establish a preferred operating position. Additionalstabilizing elements on the frame may interact with surfaces separatefrom the attachment substrate of the mounting means to further adjustand stabilize the emplacement of the tablet PC. The tablet PC may beconveniently removed from and inserted into the frame of the apparatuswithout significant effort on the part of the user and withoutsignificant assembly or disassembly of any part of the apparatus.

The present invention contemplates that a popular use for tablet PCs andrelated PPCs is for navigation during vehicular travel by virtue ofnavigation hardware and software contained therein, and the inventionperforms by enabling easy access by a driver or passenger of a vehicleto the screen of the tablet PC in order to operate it in a safe mannerduring travel. The present invention resides not merely in any one ofthe features set forth in this specification, but also in the particularcombination of all of the features and improvements claimed.

The forgoing summary has outlined some features consistent with thepresent invention in order that the following detailed descriptionthereof may be better understood, and in order that the presentcontribution to the art may be better appreciated. The present inventionis not limited in its application, details, or components merely tothose set forth in the following description and illustrations. Methodsand devices consistent with the present invention are capable of otherembodiments. Also, the phraseology and terminology employed herein arefor the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limitingunless explicitly stated as such.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatusshowing an alternative arrangement of clips on the frame.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatusin which the clips are elongated on the frame.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatusholding a tablet PC within the frame.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one example of a type of versatilestabilizer attachment means.

FIG. 4B is an end view of one example of a type of versatile stabilizerattachment means.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the frame of the apparatus illustratinga simple resilient compression means for stabilizing a tablet PC betweenthe clips of the frame.

FIG. 5B is a front view of the frame of the apparatus illustrating acomplex resilient compression means for stabilizing a tablet PC betweenthe clips of the frame.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a second preferred embodiment ofthe apparatus having an adjustment means attached to the frame ratherthan at the mounting means.

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a third embodiment of the apparatuswherein the adjustment means is a cord clamp.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the invention being used to mount atablet PC in the front compartment of an automobile.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the invention being used to mount a tablet PCin the front compartment of an automobile.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the invention mounted on the back of acar seat.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a fourth embodiment of theinvention having adjustable frame dimensions.

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the fourth embodiment of theinvention having adjustable frame dimensions.

FIG. 13 is a top view of the frame showing the movement of slats duringadjustment of the horizontal length and vertical height of the frame,where the frame size is being increased by moving the slats outwardsfrom the center of the frame.

FIG. 14 is a second top view of the frame showing the movement of slatsduring adjustment of the horizontal length and vertical height of theframe, where the frame size is being reduced by moving the slats inwardstowards the centerpoint of the frame.

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of amounting and adjusting subcombination apparatus comprising an integratedmounting means, hanger, and tensioning element.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of a subpart of the subcombinationapparatus, said subpart comprising a dowel having a terminal knob at itsproximal end and being attached to a suction cup at its distal end.

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of the preferred embodiment of themounting and adjusting subcombination apparatus depicting the lever in aclosed position such that the dome having teeth impinges on the suctioncup.

FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the preferred embodiment of themounting and adjusting subcombination apparatus depicting the lever in aclosed position such that the dome having teeth impinges on the suctioncup.

FIG. 19A is a front perspective view of a fifth preferred embodiment ofthe tablet PC mounting apparatus including the mounting and adjustingsubcombination apparatus attached by its suction cup to a surface in theenvironment and with the lever closed.

FIG. 19B is a front perspective view of the fifth preferred embodimentof the tablet PC mounting apparatus including the mounting and adjustingsubcombination apparatus attached by its suction cup to a surface in theenvironment, said subcombination apparatus having the lever open andhaving been rotated clockwise around the dowel by about fifteen degrees.

FIG. 20 is a plan view, inverted vertically, of the rear side of thepreferred embodiment of the mounting and adjusting subcombinationapparatus illustrating the inner components of the shaft-locking meansfor alternatively preventing and allowing rotation of the rod (suctioncup and dowel, inter alia, omitted).

FIG. 21 is a partial section view of the shaft-locking means.

FIG. 22 is a partial section view of the dowel-locking means.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Throughout all the figures, same or corresponding elements are indicatedby the same reference numerals. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of apreferred embodiment of the apparatus 100 in which a mounting means 11comprises a suction cup assembly. The mounting means 11 mayalternatively comprise a magnet, adhesive, bracket, screws, ball andsocket, spring clip, and any other structure tending to achieveattachment to a surface. The mounting means 11 may also, oralternatively, comprise any elements useful for attachment of theapparatus 100 to a feature on a surface or in the environment. Forexample, although the suction cup assembly of the mounting means 11depicted in FIG. 1 is ideal for attachment to a substantially smoothsurface, the mounting means 11 in other embodiments of the invention maybe adapted for hanging the apparatus 100 on a hook or similarprotrusion, or for suspension of the apparatus 100 from the headrest ofa car seat or from a rear-view mirror.

The mounting means 11 is connected to a hanger 12, either directly orvia a connector element 13. The hanger 12 is attached to cordage 15, andsaid cordage 15 is connected to a frame 20 for holding a tablet PC orother personal computing device. The cordage 15 is variably connected toan adjustment means 14 for adjusting the length of the cordage 15 thatextends between the hanger 12 and the frame 20, thereby enabling theadjustment of the position of the frame 20 relative to the position ofthe mounting means 11. In other words, the adjustment means 14 adjuststhe effective length of the cordage 15 to raise and lower the frame 20.The operation of the adjustment means may be modulated by the action ofa tensioning element 16. Generally, the tensioning element 16 provides ameans for alternatively preventing or allowing the operation of theadjustment means 14, thereby preventing or allowing the adjustment ofthe effective length of the cordage 15, and thereby preventing orallowing the adjustment of the position of the frame 20 in relation tothe position of the mounting means 11.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the hanger 12 is a horizontal rod attachedto the connector element 13 in proximity to the mounting means 11. Thecordage 15 comprises two strands of filament, wherein each strand offilament connects at one end to the hanger 12 and at an opposite end tothe frame 20. The adjustment means 14 comprises a means for wrapping andunwrapping the cordage 15 about the rod of the hanger 12. In particular,the adjustment means 14 comprises a localized attachment between an endof the cordage 15 where the cordage 15 is bound to an end portion of thehanger 12 and where the cordage 15 can be wrapped and unwrapped aroundan end portion of the hanger 12. Said wrapping and unwrapping of thecordage 15 around the hanger 12 effectively alters the length of thecordage 15 which extends to the frame 20, thereby enabling the raisingand lowering of the position of the frame 20 relative to the position ofthe mounting means 11. The cordage 15 as shown in FIG. 1 extendsdirectly vertically downwards towards the frame 20, at a ninety (90)degree angle relative to the horizontal axis of the frame 20, but thisis not limiting, and the cordage 15 may in practice extend at any anglefrom either the hanger 12 or the frame 20.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the horizontal rod of the hanger 12 is heldin place by, and sits within, the connector element 13. The horizontalrod of the hanger 12 is rotatable along its longitudinal axis within theconnector element 13, except when said rotation is prevented by theaction of a tensioning element 16. The tensioning element 16 is athumbscrew threaded through the connector element 13 that impinges uponthe rotatable rod of the hanger 12 to prevent it from rotating withinthe connector element 13 when in a tightened position. Loosening of thetensioning element 16 permits the rotation of the rod of the hanger 12and is accomplished by rotating the thumbscrew through severalrevolutions a counterclockwise direction. Tightening of the tensioningelement 16 prevents the rotation of the rod of the hanger 12 and isaccomplished by turning the thumbscrew in a clockwise direction.Rotation of the rod of the hanger 12 enables the adjustment of thelength of the cordage 15 by causing the cordage 15 to wind or unwindaround the end portion of the hanger 12 comprising the adjustment means14. In alternative embodiments, the tensioning element 16 may be aconstricting collar attached to the connector element 13 where therotatable rod of the hanger 12 exits the connector element 13, saidconstricting collar being made to grip the rod of the hanger 12 tothereby prevent its rotation.

When a tablet PC is held by the frame 20, the position of the tablet PCmay be lowered by extending the length of the cordage 15 between thehorizontal rod of the hanger 12 and the frame 20. In the preferredembodiment of FIG. 1, the length of the cordage 15 is extended by firstloosening the screw of the tensioning element 16, and then by rotatingthe horizontal rod of the hanger 12 about its longitudinal axis, therebyunwinding the cordage 15 about the adjustment means 14 of the rod of thehanger 12, and thereby moving the frame 20 farther away from themounting means 11. Rotation of the rod of the hanger 12 may be achieved,for example, by the application of downwards force upon the cordage 15which is wrapped around the adjustment means 14 of the rod of the hanger12. The downwards force may result from the weight of the frame 20 orfrom manual application by a user. In order to raise the height of thetablet PC, a person manually turns the rotatable rod of the hanger 12while the tensioning element 16 is in a loosened position. When thetablet PC rests in the frame at a position satisfactory to the user, thetensioning element 16 is tightened to prevent further rotation of therod of the hanger 12.

Alternatively, the length of the cordage 15 may be manually adjusted bywrapping or unwrapping cordage 15 around the portion of the hanger 12comprising the adjustment means 14 to effect a change in the positioningof the frame 20. Such a method would be useful in situations when it isnot feasible to adjust the tensioning element 16 or to rotate the rod ofthe hanger 12, or in embodiments that do not include a tensioningelement 16 or do not employ a rotatable rod as the hanger 12. In someembodiments, the adjustment means 14 is a motorized spool that adjuststhe length of the cordage 15 by winding and unwinding under electroniccontrol, and the hanger 12 may comprise a hollow tube through which thecordage 15 is threaded rather than a rotatable rod around which thecordage 15 is wrapped. Alternatively, in further embodiments there maybe no rod at all, and the hanger 12 comprises only a motorized spoolattached to the connector element 13 and/or the mounting means 11. Thetensioning element 16 may also comprise electromagnetic resistance orother resistance within a motor which tends to resist rotation of ameans for spooling cordage.

The cordage 15 may comprise any equivalent of a cord, strap, rope, orwire that is sufficiently durable to support the weight of the frame 20when holding a PPC. The cordage 15 may comprise various materialsappropriately selected for the location in which the user desires tomount the apparatus 100. If the apparatus 100 is used in a vehicle, forexample, the cordage 15 can be thin and/or non-opaque, e.g.,monofilament fishing line, so as not to obscure the driver's view. Ifthe apparatus 100 is to be mounted from a seat in a car, airplane, orother seating area, such that the frame 20 is situated against the rearside of said seat for use by a person located behind said seat, thecordage 15 may comprise straps made of fabric. Alternatively, thecordage 15 may be any nylon, polyester, cotton, or similar material inthe form of a line or strap.

A four-sided frame 20 is connected to the cordage 15. The frame 20 maybe made of any material such as plastic, rubber, paper, woven fabric, ormetal. In FIG. 1 the frame 20 is depicted having a solid inflexibleplastic construction, but the invention comprises frames made offlexible materials like rubber, canvass, nylon, cotton, or the like,which may or may not be reinforced by rigid internal supporting membersto provide consistency of shape.

Attached to the frame 20 near each of its corners are four clips,arranged in two pairs, described as an upper clip pair 21 and a lowerclip pair 22. Each of the clip pairs 21 or 22 comprises two individualclips facing inwards relative to the perimeter of the frame 20. Theclips of the upper clip pair 21 face inwards towards each other alongthe x-axis or horizontal axis of the frame 20. Conversely, the clips ofthe lower clip pair 22 face upwards along the y-axis or vertical axis ofthe frame 20. This substantially transverse orientation of the clippairs 21 and 22 enhances the stability of the attachment between theframe 20 and the tablet PC, particularly during travel, because itallows the clips to hold the tablet PC from the bottom and sidessimultaneously in order to prevent the tablet PC from sliding off theframe 20 during horizontal and lateral motion. This advantageous featureof the invention, having dual clip pairs in substantially transverseorientations located near the corners of a frame, provides maximumattachment stability for a tablet PC while using a minimum of materials.

Sometimes, using the minimum amount of materials is not advantageous,and so each of the clips may be wider than those shown in FIG. 1.Whereas the clips shown in FIG. 1 may be, for example, 0.25 to 1.0inches wide, clips in other embodiments could be several inches wide andmay even extend for substantially the full length of any side of theframe 20. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2A, an additional set ofclips, clip pair 23, can be attached in a parallel orientation belowclip pair 21 in embodiments where increased support for the tablet PC isdesired. On the bottom edge of the frame 20, the two clips of clip pair22 may be merged into a single clip 24. In embodiments of the inventionin which conservative use of materials is not desired, clips may extendsubstantially along the entire lengths of the left, right, and bottomedges of the frame 20, as shown in FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3 illustrates the apparatus 100 holding a tablet PC 3 within theframe 20. A tablet PC 3 slides into position on the frame 20 whenlowered into the gap between the clips of the upper clip pair 21 untilthe bottom edge of the tablet PC 3 comes to rest upon the clips of thelower clip pair 22. Removal of the tablet PC 3 from the frame 20 of theapparatus 100 is accomplished by simply lifting the tablet PC 3 upthrough the gap between the clips of the upper clip pair 21. While priorart mounting devices are defeated by the bulk and weight of tablet PCs,the present invention capitalizes on said bulk and weight to increasethe security of the attachment between the tablet PC 3 and the clips ofthe lower clip pair 22 upon which it rests. The weight and dimensions ofa typical tablet PC thus render it so firmly attached to the frame 20 ofthe apparatus 100 that only a complete inversion of the apparatus 100can dislodge the tablet PC 3 from its attached position. Even thisunlikely contingency can be easily corrected by the addition of furtherclips or fastening means at the top edge of the frame 20, ascontemplated for other embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 demonstrates that the tablet PC 3 may be positioned at a distancefrom the actual site of attachment between the mounting means 11 andsome surface or object in the environment. Adjustment of the actualposition of the tablet PC 3, by virtue of its confinement within theframe 20, is easily regulated by adjusting the effective length of thecordage 15. The precise emplacement of the tablet PC 3 may be furtherregulated by stabilizers 26 attached to the rear surface of the frame20. Stabilizers 26 may comprise suction cup assemblies and otherstructures tending to achieve attachment to a surface. Stabilizers 26may interact with the same surface to which the mounting means 11attaches, or to different surfaces and structures in the environment.Multiple stabilizers 26 may be attached to the rear side of the frame 20and they may be adapted for use in any general or specific location.

For example, when the apparatus 100 is mounted in an automobile and themounting means 11 is attached to a windshield, the frame 20 holding thetable PC 3 may hang suspended to a position near the lower console ofthe dashboard. One or more stabilizers 26 may interact with thedashboard or console of the automobile to prevent the frame 20 andtablet PC 3 from swaying, twisting or otherwise shifting position duringmovement of the vehicle. Various custom stabilizers 26 may bespecifically manufactured for application in designated conditions orlocations, such as in specific models of automobiles, for example, wherethey may be designed according to the particular contours of thedashboard or center console. Stabilizers 26 are intended not only tofacilitate attachment, but also to adjustably control the orientation ofthe frame 20 and tablet PC 3 to achieve fine control over the angle anddirection of emplacement during use.

Stabilizers 26 may be swappable by virtue of a versatile stabilizerattachment means 25, such that the frame 20 of a single apparatus 100may be equipped with different stabilizers 26 at different timesaccording to specific needs. FIGS. 4A and 4B show a perspective view andan end view, respectively, of an example of a versatile stabilizerattachment means 25. In this embodiment, the stabilizer attachment means25 comprises a bar having a channeled extrusion or slot 27 on a sidefacing away from the frame 20, wherein the slot 27 receives a knobbedend 28 of a stabilizer 26 such as a suction cup. If the apparatus 100 ismoved to a locale where an adhesive or a magnet would be superior to asuction cup as a stabilizer 26, then adhesives or magnets, each havingknobs 28 compatible with the slot 27 of the stabilizer attachment means25, can be swapped in while the suction cups are swapped out by slidingsaid stabilizers 26 along the slot 27 until they exit the bottom of thebar. One or more instances of such a versatile stabilizer attachmentmeans 25 may be attached to the rear surface of the frame 20, preferablyone per side.

Further embodiments of the invention may comprise a resilientcompression means 30 for gripping the lateral edges of a tablet PC wheninserted into the frame 20, or for effectively increasing the pressureapplied by the clips to the tablet PC 3 inside the frame 20. FIG. 5Ashows two iterations of a resilient compression means 30 attached to theinterior surface of each clip of clip pair 21. The resilient compressionmeans 30 in this embodiment comprises a flexible metal band 31 attachedto the inside surface of a clip. When a tablet PC is inserted into theframe 20, the outer surface of the flexible metal band 31 of theresilient compression means 30 pushes against the lateral edges of thetablet PC, thus holding it more firmly in place between the clips ofclip pair 21. This arrangement can be repeated in other embodiments suchas those that comprise two lateral clip pairs 21 and 23. Or, instead ofa metal band, the resilient compression means 30 may be a strip of felt,a foam cushion, or other spongy material, for example.

A more elaborate resilient compression means 30 may comprise a platform32 supported by springs 33 as shown in FIG. 5B. The platform 32 isdepressed by the lateral edges of a tablet PC 3 as it is inserted intothe frame 20 between the clip pair 21, said platform 32 being pushedagainst the resistance in the springs 33 which extend transversely fromthe interior surface of the clips of the clip pair 21.

Alternative Configurations for Adjusting Length of Cordage

FIG. 6 shows an alternative configuration for the apparatus 100, inwhich the adjustment means 14 is attached at the frame 20 instead of atthe mounting means 11. Another way to describe this alternativearrangement is to say that the adjustment means 14 is attached to theopposite ends of the cordage 15 as compared to the arrangement depictedin the embodiment of FIG. 1. In FIG. 6, the hanger 12 remains attachedto the connector element 13 in proximity to the mounting means 11,however, the hanger 12 is not rotatable. The cordage 15 extends from oneend downwards from the hanger 12 and attaches at its opposite end to theadjustment means 14. The adjustment means 14 may comprise the endportions of a second horizontal rod 34 similar to the structurepreviously described as the hanger in the embodiment of FIG. 1. Saidsecond horizontal rod 34 is attached to the frame 20 by a connectorelement 35 that has a thumbscrew as a tensioning element 16. Adjustmentof the effective length of the cordage 15 for adjusting the position ofthe frame 20 relative to the position of the mounting means 11 isachieved as described for the embodiment of FIG. 1.

In another alternative configuration, illustrated in FIG. 7, theadjustment means 14 is a clamp, a barrel nut, a re-closable fastener, abuckle or similar strap adjustment assembly, or any other means forcontrolling the length of a looped cord or strap. The cordage 15 isattached to the hanger 12 fastened to the mounting means 11, and as thecordage 15 descends to the frame 20, it loops around a ring, pulley, pegor similar loop attachment element 36 on the frame 20, whereupon itextends upwards again to join with the adjustment means 14, which ismanually positioned by the user of the invention at a desired locationbetween the frame 20 and the hanger 12. The user may slide or move theadjustment means 14 higher or lower to adjust the effective length ofthe cordage 15, thereby adjusting the position of the frame 20 relativeto the position of the mounting means 11.

Using the Invention to Mount a Tablet PC within an Automobile

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus 100 of thepresent invention holding a tablet PC 3 in the frame 20 while themounting means 11 is attached to the interior surface of a windshield inan automobile. The adjustment means 14 is adjusted so that the frame 20is situated at an appropriate location adjacent to the center console ofthe lower dashboard. The stabilizers 26 contact the lower part of thedashboard to hold the frame 20 in a stationary position and preventlateral swinging. The contact between the stabilizers 26 and the lowerdashboard is particularly apparent in FIG. 9, which is a side view ofthe apparatus 100 of the present invention holding a tablet PC 3 in theframe 20 while the mounting means 11 is attached to the interior surfaceof a windshield in an automobile.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the apparatus 100 mounted on the backof a car seat to be conveniently operable by a passenger behind theseat. The mounting means 11 comprises a pair of clasps attached to thetwo arms that support a headrest above the seat. The mounting means 11is attached to the hanger 12 by a connector element 13, and the cordage15 extends downwards from the hanger 12 to the frame 20. The frame 20hangs at a position behind the seat back and is attached thereto bystabilizers 26. The stabilizers 26 are independently adjustable spacers,and the orientation of the frame 20 is maintained in a vertical planedespite the tilt of the seat, because the bottom spacers extend slightlyfarther than the top spacers from the rear surface of the frame 20.

Frame Size Variability

Tablet PCs range in sizes from approximately 5 (five) inches toapproximately 10 (ten) inches in width, and between 3 (three) and 10(ten) inches in height. The present invention accommodates sizevariability in several ways. First, the resilient compression means 30may occupy any gap between the lateral edges of a tablet PC and theconfining clips when said gap is less than approximately one inch wide.Alternative embodiments utilize an adjustable frame 20 in which eachside of the frame 20 may slide relative to the other sides of the frame20, as depicted, for example, in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a front surface of the apparatus 100having a frame 20 with adjustable dimensions. Adjustability of framedimensions in this embodiment is achieved by constructing the edges ofthe frame from slats 40, 41, 42, 43 with a central groove 44, 45, 46, 47in each, wherein said central groove receives the threaded portion of abolt, peg, or similar fastening means 48, 49, 50, 51. Said bolts have aflat surface and may be fastened to their respective slat by a nut 52,53, 54, 55. One or more of the slats 41 and 43 may comprise two adjacentmembers sandwiched together by one or more guide elements 56 and 57, sothat a second slat 58 and 59 is positioned above the first slat 41 and43, respectively. The sandwiched slats, 41 and 58 on the one side, and43 and 59 on the opposite side, slide over one another between the edgesof the guide elements, 56 and 57, respectively. Extension of the slidingslats 41, 43, 58, 59 extends the length of the respective side of theframe 20, and retraction of said sliding members contracts the length ofthe respective side of the frame 20. Although not shown in FIG. 11, theother two sides of the frame 20 may also or alternatively comprisesliding slats. Clip pairs 21 and 22 are also shown extending from thefront surface of the frame 20.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the rear surface of the apparatus 100having the frame 20 with adjustable dimensions. Any of the slats 40, 41,42, 43 may be constructed such that they are continuous with any of theclips, such as the clips of clip pairs 21 and 22. Both FIG. 11 and FIG.12 depict four stabilizers 26, which in this embodiment are suction cupassemblies comprising a rod 60 attached to the slats 41 and 43 of theframe 20. Two rings 61 and 62 serve as attachment points for the cordage15 and may be construed as equivalent to the loop attachment elements 36of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, above.

FIG. 13 illustrates how the sides of the frame 20 can be moved relativeto each other to adjust the horizontal length and vertical height of theframe in a manner that enlarges the dimensions of the frame during use.The movement of the sides is accomplished without disassembling theframe 20; retaining bolts or their corresponding nuts (e.g., 48, 49),which pass through grooves (e.g., 44, 45, 46, 47) in the slats (e.g.,40, 41, 42, 43) that comprise the sides of the frame 20, are loosenedslightly to permit the slat members to slide relative to each other, andthen said bolts are re-tightened when the dimensions are established tothe satisfaction of the user. The frame 20 would be attached to thecordage 15 (not shown) at eye-rings 61 and 62, for example. The slatsare guided and positioned as they slide relative to each other viaguides (e.g., 56 and 57). The “top side” of the frame 20, for example,would be considered as comprising slats 43 and 59. The large shadedarrow pointing upwards in the drawing represents motion of the top sideof the frame 20 in the vertical direction. The large black arrowpointing leftwards represents motion of the left side of the frame 20 inthe horizontal direction. The left side in this example comprises slat42. Notice how the clips of the clip pairs 21 (horizontal clip pairs)and 22 (vertical clips), being attached to the various sides of theframe, are effectively moved away from each other as the frame expands,thus enabling the frame to accommodate a larger tablet PC or otherdevice inside of it in a finely adjustable and continuously adjustablemanner.

FIG. 14 illustrates how the sides of the frame 20 can be moved relativeto each other to adjust the horizontal length and vertical height of theframe in a manner that reduces the dimensions of the frame during use.The movement of the sides is accomplished as described for FIG. 13. The“top side” of the frame 20 in this example, as in the previous example,comprises slats 43 and 59. The large shaded arrow pointing downwards inFIG. 14 represents motion of the top side of the frame 20 in thevertical direction. The large shaded arrow pointing rightwardsrepresents motion of the left side of the frame 20 in the horizontaldirection. Notice how the clips of the clip pairs 21 and 22, beingattached to the various sides of the frame, are effectively movedtowards each other as the sides are contracted, thus enabling the frame20 to snugly accommodate a smaller tablet PC or other device inside ofit in a finely adjustable and continuously adjustable manner.

Any of the various embodiments shown herein may borrow from any of theothers, such that any of the various mounting means 11, adjustment means14, types of cordage 15, arrangement of clip pairs 21, 22, 23, or 24,and methods for adjusting dimensions of the frame 20, for example, maybe combined within any one embodiment of the apparatus 100. Although onespecific example of an adjustable frame 20 is illustrated in thedrawings herein, any of the methods known in the art for constructing anadjustable four-sided frame are contemplated for use in the presentinvention.

Subcombinations Comprising Integrated Mounting and Adjusting Means

As stated above in paragraph [0039], the mounting means 11 is connectedto a hanger 12, either directly or via a connector element 13. Thepresent invention achieves enhanced portability, ease of use,versatility, and other various advantages in that it allows for theinclusion of a subcombination apparatus comprising an integratedmounting means 11, hanger 12, and tensioning element 16, wherein saidmounting means comprises, broadly, a suction cup assembly (110-112;FIGS. 15, 17-19B), said hanger comprises a rotatable rod 12 havingspools 122 and 123 as adjustment means 14, and said tensioning element16 comprises a shaft-locking means (132-134; FIGS. 20, 21) forpreventing rotation of the rod 12. For lexicographical purposes, saidsubcombination apparatus shall be referred to herein as “a mounting andadjusting subcombination apparatus” 200 or simply the “subcombinationapparatus” 200.

A front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of such a mountingand adjusting subcombination apparatus 200 is depicted in FIGS. 15 and17. A central portion of the rod 12 is housed in a block 113 that isfixedly attached to a shell-like dome 110, where each of these pieces ispreferably manufactured of a durable rigid material like plastic, suchas from a mold or a 3-dimensional printer. In this arrangement, theblock 113 may be considered a de facto connector element 13. The dome110 has an aperture in its center through which passes a push-rod ordowel 115, said dowel 115 comprising a cylindrical body made of anyrigid material (e.g., plastic, metal) having a knob, flathead, or otherenlarged structure (“terminal knob”) 116 at its proximal terminus andbeing attached to a suction cup 112 at its distal terminus such thatsaid suction cup 112 protrudes from the distal or concave side of thedome 110. These orienting labels are chosen to simplify thisdescription, where “proximal” means towards or above the convex side ofthe dome 110 (and thus more proximal to the center of mass of thesubcombination apparatus 200) and “distal” means towards or under theconcave side of the dome 110 (and therefore more distal from the centerof mass of the subcombination apparatus 200). The subpart comprising thedowel 115 and the suction cup 112, depicted by itself in FIG. 16, ismovable independently of the other elements in the subcombinationapparatus 200, particularly in that the dowel 115 and attached suctioncup 112 may rotate freely clockwise and/or counterclockwise about thelongitudinal axis of the dowel 115 as it sits within the aperture of thedome 110 while the lever 120 is open, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 19B whererange of motion is represented by a shaded double-headed arrow in FIG.15. The remainder of the subcombination apparatus essentially comprisesanother subpart or a second set of elements that are all attached toeach other and therefore appear to rotate in unison around the axis ofthe dowel 115 when the suction cup 112 is attached to a surface in theenvironment and the lever 120 is open, as shown in FIG. 19B. Thisfeature is important because rotation of said remainder (denotedhereinafter for simplicity as the “dome and rod portion of theapparatus”) causes the rod 12 to tilt longitudinally relative towhatever surface to which the suction cup 112 is attached; and, thislongitudinal tilt of the rod 12 affects the positioning of the frame 20suspended from the rod 12 by virtue of the cordage 15 attached to thespools 122 and 123, which is evident in FIG. 19B. In this way, clockwiseor counterclockwise rotation of the dome and rod portion around thedowel 115 causes tilting of the rod 12 and thereby provides a means formaking fine adjustments to the angle at which the rod 12 projects fromthe subcombination apparatus 200 while attached to a mounting surfaceand, consequently, for making adjustments in the orientation of theframe 20.

In a preferred embodiment as depicted in FIG. 16, the dowel 115 isfixedly attached at its distal end to a plate 109 (of metal, plastic, orother sturdy material) that comprises a means for stably affixing saidsuction cup 112 to said dowel 115, but any suitable means for attachingthe dowel 115 to the suction cup 112 may be employed. Suction cup 112 ismanufactured of rubber, plastic, or other flexible material suitable forperforming one or more attachment functions known (presently or in thefuture) in the arts relevant to suction cups and equivalent fasteners.In preferred embodiments, the suction cup 112 is attached such that itdoes not rotate independently of the dowel 115, but alternativeembodiments permit such rotation. At the proximal end of the dowel 115,which is the end opposite from the suction cup 112, the terminal knob116 interfaces with a lift block 117 connected to a lever 120, asdepicted in FIGS. 15 and 17, such that pushing down on the lever 120causes the lift block 117 to engage the terminal knob 116 from theunderside of the terminal knob 116, and then to lift it upwards (i.e.,towards the proximal) from a fulcrum provided by side pins 118 rotatingwithin pin mounts 119 that are attached to the dome 110 such that thedome 110 and the suction cup 112 are moved towards each other. When thelever 120 is fully closed (FIG. 17), the rim of the dome 110 is pressedtightly against a portion of the suction cup 112 and the resultingfriction prevents any further rotation of these two elements relative toeach other around the axis of the dowel 115. In preferred embodiments,an array of teeth 111 or other gripping means project distally from anedge or rim of the dome 110, said teeth 111 facing towards the suctioncup 112, where said teeth 111 are preferably molded from or constituentin the same piece of material that comprises the dome 110. Said teeth111 thus serve as a gripping means for facilitating the temporaryattachment of the dome 110 to the suction cup 112 whenever pressure isapplied to push the dome 110 outwards/downwards/distally along the axisof the dowel 115 and against the suction cup 112, such as when the lever120 is depressed. By maintaining the dome 110 in this position of beingfirmly pressed against the suction cup 112 such that the teeth 111impinge upon the material of the suction cup 112 while the suction cup112 is stably attached to a mounting surface in the environment, theclockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the dome and rod subpart isprevented (with respect to reasonable amounts of applied torque) andthus the axial orientation of the rod 12 is temporarily fixed in adesired position, as depicted in FIGS. 19A and 19B. Various alternativesto “teeth” (angular protrusions) may substitute for the teeth 111 as themeans for enabling the dome 110 to grip the suction cup 112 in this oran equivalent manner, such that the result is to reversibly fix the dome110 and the suction cup 112 in abutment and to thereby reversibly allowor prevent rotation of the “dome and rod portion of the apparatus”around the dowel 115. FIG. 17 depicts the subcombination apparatus 200with the lever 120 in a closed position while the suction cup 112 isstably attached to a glass surface (not shown), wherein the teeth 111are pressed against the edge of the suction cup 112, thereby preventingrotation of the dome 110 and of the rod 12 around the dowel 115.

The lever 120 acts upon the proximal end of the dowel 115 via a leverassembly comprising said lever 120, two side pin mounts 119 holding sidepins 118 serving as the fulcrum for the lever assembly, where said sidepins 118 also intersect a lift block 117 that moves up and down in loosecontact with the axis of the dowel 115 as the side pins 118 move up anddown in their parallel tracks in their respective pin mounts 119. Thus,the lift block 117 conditionally engages the terminal knob 116 of thedowel 115. When the lever 120 is pushed from an open to a closedposition, a part of its arm contacts and is deflected by the dome 110which causes the side pins 118 to move upwards or proximally within thepin mounts 119 thereby carrying the lift block 117 correspondinglyupwards or proximally to engage with the terminal knob 116, which isthen itself pushed correspondingly upwards or proximally therebytransferring a pulling force along the dowel 115 to the suction cup 112.Whenever said suction cup 112 is stably attached to a stationary surfacein the environment, this pulling force effectively pushes the dome 110down the axis of the dowel 115 distally towards the suction cup 112until it (and its teeth 111, if any) impinges directly against thesuction cup 112. The side pins 118 may comprise screws with their headson the outside of the pin mounts 119 and with their threaded portionspassing through their respective channels in the pin mounts 119 andterminating in the lift block 117. The pin mounts 119 preferablycomprise durable tabs (e.g., of plastic or metal) projecting from theproximal (convex) surface of the dome 110 and being fixedly attachedthereto, by a glue for example, or as a single molded piece as part ofthe dome 110. In a preferred embodiment, each of said pin mounts 119comprises a central channel in which one of the side pins 118 isconfined such that said side pin 118 has freedom to move short distancesthrough the channel in directions parallel or anti-parallel to theorientation of the axis of the dowel 115. When the lever 120 is open(FIG. 15) the side pins 118 rest in the channels of the pin mounts 119at positions nearer to the dome 110; conversely, when the lever 120 isclosed (FIG. 17), the side pins 118 rest in the channels of the pinmounts 119 at positions farther away from the dome 110. As the lever 120is moved from its open to its closed position, the “dome and rod portionof the apparatus” is effectively pushed pushed downwards or distallyalong the axis of the dowel 115 by virtue of the lift block 117impinging upon the terminal knob 116, and, by virtue of the side pins118 having freedom to slide away from the dome 110 inside the channelsof the pin mounts 119. When the lever 120 is fully closed or locked, theteeth 111 are pushed against the suction cup 112 with the maximumavailable force and rotation of the dome and rod portion of theapparatus is effectively prevented. When the lever 120 is substantiallyor fully open, this condition allows for the dome and rod portion of theapparatus to both rotate around the dowel 115 and move alternatelyupwards/proximally and downwards/distally along the axis of the dowel115 (albeit over a very short distance of roughly 0.25 to 1.0 inches,depending on the length of the dowel 115, the thickness of the liftblock 117, the range of the side pins 118 within the pin mounts 119, andother structurally limiting factors in particular models/embodiments).Other means, including motorized means, for applying upwards ordownwards force upon the dowel 115 may be employed in other embodimentsaccording to any means known in the art for moving two subparts of anapparatus towards and/or away from each other.

FIG. 18 shows the same embodiment of subcombination apparatus 200 from arear perspective view, providing a more direct view of the connectorelement or block 113. Here, block 113 is substantially shaped as a cubeapproximately 0.25 to 1.0 inches long on each side, although any shapeis permissible, which block 113 is substantially hollow and adapted tohouse a shaft-locking means within it. An access plate 114 can bereversibly attached to one or more sides of said block 113 to permitassembly of or access to the inner mechanism comprising theshaft-locking means (see FIGS. 20 and 21, explained below). Said accessplate 114 is depicted as a single panel of the block 113 but maycomprise multiple panels or even an entire the top half portion of theblock 113. The block 113 has an aperture in each of its two lateral sidewalls through which the rod 12 passes and in which the rod 12 may rotateunimpeded. In some embodiments, the lateral side walls of the block 113do not comprise mere holes as said apertures, but rather they comprisehollow tubes or barrels 121 that extend outwards from the block 113 tocreate elongated apertures or “sleeves” that help stabilize the rod 12and guide its rotation about its longitudinal axis (where said rotationis represented by the semicircular double-headed arrow in FIG. 18),which axis projects longitudinally through the approximate center of theblock 113. These sleeves 121 may be fashioned from the same piece ofmaterial as the block 113 (as when made from a single mold ormanufactured using a 3D printer) and may be located partially or whollyon the access plate 114. At either end of the rod 12, a spool 122 and/or123 serves as an adjustment means 14 for adjusting the length of thecordage 15 that extends between the hanger 12 and the frame 20, whereeach of said spools is attached to an end portion of the cordage 15 asdescribed for previously presented embodiments (e.g., FIG. 1) and asdepicted in FIGS. 19A and 19B. A rear wall and/or other side of theblock 113 may be adapted or elongated to affix it securely to the dome110, and in preferred embodiments the block 113 (minus its access plate114) is formed or molded from the same piece of material as the dome110, for example as if created from a 3D printer.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of the rear side of an inverted mounting andadjusting subcombination apparatus 200 as if the embodiment shown inFIG. 18 had been flipped 180 degrees clockwise. FIG. 21 is a partialsection view from a left-hand perspective of the same structure, notnecessarily drawn to scale, depicting the shaft-locking means forreversibly preventing and allowing rotation of the rod 12 about itslongitudinal axis. The portion of the rod 12 passing through the block113 comprises a plug 133 having a shape complementary to a plug receptor134, said plug receptor 134 being attached not to the rod 12 but insteadto the block 113 (preferably as a shape or sconce molded into theinwards-facing surface of one or more side walls of the block 113). Theplug 133 on the rod 12 may physically engage the plug receptor 134 in akey-in-lock type of geometric alignment. When so engaged, the plug 133cannot rotate within the plug receptor 134 and therefore the rod 12 maynot rotate around its longitudinal axis. Said engagement is caused tooccur by the application of a force to the rod 12, for example, when aperson pushes laterally against an end of the rod 12 or when an internalspring 132 (explained below) pushes the rod 12 in a direction parallelto its longitudinal axis such that the attached plug 133 is pushed intothe plug receptor 134 of the block 113. When the plug 133 engages theplug receptor 134, their geometric complementarity prevents them fromrotating relative to each other which in turn prevents the rod 12 fromrotating in its housing in the block 113. For example, the plug 133 mayhave a star-like or gear-like shape with spokes extending from a centralbody that have been fabricated to fit snugly into complementaryapertures in the one or more sidewalls of the block 113 comprising theplug receptor 134, as indicated in FIGS. 20 and 21. Any other suitablegeometries, including one or more of a peg and a hole, may be employedfor making the plug 133 complementary to the plug receptor 134 in thismanner. In preferred embodiments, this shaft-locking means alsocomprises a spring 132 wound around the axis of the rod 12, inparticular around the portion of the rod 12 passing through the block113, where a first end of the spring 132 abuts an internal wall or edgeof the block 113 opposite from the plug receptor 134 and a second end ofthe spring 132 abuts the plug 133. In FIGS. 20 and 21, said first end ofthe spring 132 abuts the inside surface of the access plate 114 (whichis shown in a partially disassembled configuration where the accessplate 114 has been removed and shifted leftwards from the block 113 asrepresented by the unshaded double arrow in FIG. 20) while said secondend of said spring 132 is shown impinging upon the plug 133. Thus, thespring force pushes from a first side of the block 113 opposite from thelocation of the plug receptor 134, towards the plug 133 and towards theplug receptor 134, such that the spring 132 pushes the plug 133 into theplug receptor 134 when properly aligned geometrically. Proper alignmentis achieved in most embodiments by rotating the rod 12 around itslongitudinal axis (which rotates the plug 133 in tandem) until thespokes or other shape of the plug 133/receptor 134 combination are in acomplementary juxtaposition suitable for engagement. To disengage thisshaft-locking means, a person or a motor or other mechanism pulls on theend of the rod 12 such that the plug 133 is pulled away from the plugreceptor 134, which incidentally is to pull opposite the direction ofthe spring force in embodiments that comprise a spring 132.Alternatively and/or additionally, the shaft-locking means may beconfigured in the converse such that pushing on an end of the rod 12achieves the disengagement. The lateral motion of the rod 12 parallel toits longitudinal axis is represented by the shaded double-headed arrowin FIGS. 18 and 20. This feature, the shaft-locking means, is preferablyemployed where the spools 122 and 123 do not rotate independently of therod 12, but such is not essential to the functionality of the apparatusas a whole; other arrangements in which said spools have independentmotion are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

A method that a person may use to mount the various tablet PC holderapparatuses of the present invention to a surface in the environmentusing the subcombination apparatus 200 (to create the configurationsillustrated in FIGS. 19A and 19B, for example) comprises a first step ofattaching the suction cup 112 to the target surface while the lever 120is fully open. Before closing the lever 120, the suction cup 112 can beattached and reattached to the target surface until the most desirablemounting position is achieved, as is commonly done with any suction cupor equivalent fastener known in the art. The attachment and reattachmentof the suction cup 112 may be facilitated by directly pushing or pullingon the dowel 115, such as by pushing or pulling on the terminal knob116. Next, the person grips the dome 110 and gently rotates it aroundthe dowel 115 until the longitudinal tilt of the rod 12 issatisfactorily aligned relative to the chosen mounting position and userpreferences. Then the person closes the lever 120 to fix the rod 12 inthis final angular position, and next the person pulls axially on theend of the rod 12 to disengage the shaft-locking means, allowing the rod12 to rotate along its longitudinal axis while housed in the block 113,and then the person further proceeds to rotate the rod 12 a sufficientnumber of revolutions until the desired effective length of the cordage15 is achieved. After this, the person adjusts the axial rotation stateof the rod 12 so that the plug 133 aligns with the plug receptor 134,and finally the person allows the spring 132 (or pushes/pulls directlyon the end of the rod 12 when no spring is present) to cause the plug133 to engage the plug receptor 134. At any time before and after thesesteps, the length of the cordage 15 descending from the rod 12 may beadjusted to place the frame 20 in a desired final location relative tothe mounting position of the apparatus 200, and the dome 110 can bere-adjusted and rotated slightly to finely control the tilt angle of therod 12, and other adjustments can be made as described for the variousother embodiments of the present invention. Thus, a quick and convenientmeans for making multiple adjustments to the placement and positioningof the apparatus 100 of the present invention can be provided by asimple, lightweight, durable, single integrated piece corresponding tothe subcombination apparatus 200. However, the utility of thesubcombination apparatus 200 is not limited to use with the presentinvention 100, and it may be incorporated into any other separate anddistinct composition of matter where its integrated mounting andadjusting features are desired.

The concept of the shaft-locking means may also be applied to the dowel115 to provide a dowel-locking means for reversibly allowing andpreventing rotation of the dome and rod portion of the apparatus aroundthe dowel 115. FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of the subcombinationapparatus 200 in which a plug 133 is attached to the body of the dowel115 (preferably on the underside of the terminal knob 116) and a plugreceptor 134 is provided in the lift block 117. Thus, when the lever 120is depressed the lift block 117 moves towards the plug 133 and causes itto engage the plug receptor that exists on the lift block 117. Onceengaged, the dowel-locking means provides a second restraint on theability of the subpart comprising the dowel 115 and suction cup 112 torotate, where the first restraint remains, as described above, in thefriction produced at the point of contact between the teeth 111 of thedome 110 and the suction cup 112.

Waterproofing and Ruggedizing Modifications

Because the present invention is suitable for mounting the apparatus 100in marine environments and other outdoor applications, for example forusing an apparatus of the present invention to mount a tablet PC fromthe windshield of a boat, it is advantageous to provide extrawaterproofing means for protecting the tablet PC or other mounted devicefrom salt water, concussions, vibrations, and the elements in general.Products exist in the prior art for encasing tablet PCs and otherdevices in various cushioning and waterproofing sleeves or containers,including for example, the Joy Factory Bubbleshield and the Dry Casewaterproof vacuum sealed container, which can be used with mostpreferred embodiments of the apparatus of the present invention. Inthese examples, a person using the mounting apparatuses of the presentinvention may enclose a Tablet PC 3 in such a waterproofing orcushioning container and then insert the wrapped device into the frame20 between clip pairs 21 and 22 as would be performed when inserting anunwrapped device. Alternative embodiments of the present inventionprovide plastic panel shields or coverings prefabricated to fit aroundthe clips and frame 20 so that the mounting apparatus 100 itself can besubstantially shielded, enclosed, or wrapped in protective materialwithout requiring that the tablet PC 3 or other device itself bedirectly wrapped. In one embodiment providing extra weatherproofingcapabilities, the weatherproofing means comprises one or more clearplastic panels that are attached as a separate component over and aroundthe underlying apparatus 100 and/or 200. In other embodiments, saidextra weatherproofing can be prefabricated into the frame of theapparatus as an extension of one or more sides of the frame 20 or asenlarged clips adapted from clips pairs 21 and 22, preferably comprisingclear plastic clips that cover and/or enclose substantially the entiremounted tablet PC or device while inserted into the frame 20. A sealabletop cover or side cover on the frame 20 can be opened or closed topermit the device to be inserted and removed from the apparatus in thoseembodiments. Furthermore, shock absorbing means may be included in theclips (one example of which is illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, elements30 and 31). Additionally or alternatively, enhanced shock absorbing andruggedizing features may be included in the stabilizer attachment means26.

It should be emphasized that the above described embodiments of thepresent invention exemplify some, but not all, possible implementationsof the present invention and have been set forth in order to provide aclear understanding of its qualities. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based mayreadily be utilized as a basis for designing of other structures,methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of thepresent invention. The following claims should be regarded asencompassing equivalent and various constructions insofar as they do notdepart from the spirit and scope of the methods and devices consistentwith the present invention.

I claim:
 1. An apparatus for mounting a tablet personal computer orother portable electronic device, the apparatus comprising: a mountingmeans connected to a hanger by a connector element, wherein the hangercomprises a rod and wherein said connector element comprises a block,wherein said block comprises a means for holding the rod such that therod passes through one or more apertures in said block such that saidrod is rotatable about its longitudinal axis and such that a centralportion of the rod is housed inside a substantially hollow area of theblock, wherein said mounting means comprises a dome fixedly attached tosaid connector element and a suction cup attached to a distal end of adowel that passes through an aperture in said dome such that said domesubstantially covers said suction cup and such that said dowel mayrotate about its longitudinal axis, and wherein said dowel comprises aterminal knob at a proximal end of said dowel, and wherein said terminalknob engages a lift block connected to a lever assembly attached to saiddome such that pushing down on a lever of said lever assembly causessaid lift block to engage and push against said terminal knob such thatsaid suction cup is drawn towards said dome until said dome abuts saidsuction cup substantially tightly; and wherein the apparatus furthercomprises cordage descending vertically from the rod and attaching to afour-sided frame, said cordage having an effective length correspondingto a distance between the hanger and the frame; an adjustment means foradjusting the effective length of the cordage, the adjustment meanscomprising two spools, one of said spools residing near each of two endsof the rod, where each of said spools is attached to an end portion ofthe cordage; at least one horizontally oriented pair of clips,comprising two opposing clips for holding the tablet personal computeror other portable electronic device between them, said horizontallyoriented pair of clips being attached on opposite lateral sides of theframe; at least one vertically oriented clip for supporting a bottomedge of the tablet personal computer or other portable electronicdevice, said vertically oriented clip being attached to the bottom sideof the frame, and, a reversible shaft-locking means for alternativelypreventing and allowing rotation of the rod about its longitudinal axis.2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said dome further comprises a meansfor gripping said suction cup when said dome abuts said suction cup, 3.The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said means for gripping comprises aseries of teeth projecting from a rim of said dome.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the reversible shaft-locking means comprises a plugattached to the rod and a plug receptor attached to the block of theconnector element, wherein the plug receptor is shaped complementary tothe plug, such that sliding an end of the rod towards the plug receptorcauses the plug to engage the plug receptor and thereby preventsrotation of the rod about its longitudinal axis when the plug attachedthereto is engaged with the plug receptor, and such that sliding saidend of the rod away from the plug receptor causes the plug to disengagefrom the plug receptor and thereby permits rotation of the rod about itslongitudinal axis.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, further comprising aspring, a portion of the rod passing through the longitudinal axialcenter of said spring, wherein a first end of said spring abuts aninside surface of said substantially hollow area of said block and asecond end of said spring abuts the plug, such that said spring directsforce from the inside edge of said substantially hollow area of saidblock to the plug, thereby pushing the plug towards the plug receptor.6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a reversibledowel-locking means for alternatively preventing and allowing rotationof the dowel about its longitudinal axis, said dowel-locking meanscomprising a plug attached to the dowel near the proximal end of thedowel and a plug receptor attached to the lift block, wherein the plugreceptor is shaped complementary to the plug, such that closing thelever of the lever assembly pushes the plug receptor of the lift blockagainst the plug of the dowel causing the plug to engage the plugreceptor and thereby preventing rotation of the dowel about itslongitudinal axis, and such that opening the lever of the lever assemblydisengages the plug from the plug receptor and thereby permits rotationof the dowel about its longitudinal axis.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising one or more sleeves extending laterally outwards fromthe one ore more apertures in said block and projecting parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the rod, wherein said sleeves comprise a hollowinterior that effectively extends said substantially hollow area of saidblock such that said sleeves substantially surround and stabilize therod of which a portion is housed inside said substantially hollow areaof said block.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or aplurality of stabilizers attached to a rear surface of the frame.
 9. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the length of one or more sides of theframe is adjustable.
 10. A subcombination apparatus of a mountingapparatus which combines integrated mounting and adjusting means, thesubcombination apparatus comprising: a mounting means connected to ahanger by a connector element, wherein the hanger comprises a rod andwherein said connector element comprises a block, wherein said blockcomprises a means for holding the rod such that the rod passes throughone or more apertures in said block such that said rod is rotatableabout its longitudinal axis and such that a central portion of the rodis housed inside a substantially hollow area of the block, wherein saidmounting means comprises a dome fixedly attached to said connectorelement and a suction cup attached to a distal end of a dowel thatpasses through an aperture in said dome such that said domesubstantially covers said suction cup and such that said dowel mayrotate about its longitudinal axis, and wherein said dowel comprises aterminal knob at a proximal end of said dowel, and wherein said terminalknob engages a lift block connected to a lever assembly attached to saiddome such that pushing down on a lever of said lever assembly causessaid lift block to engage and push against said terminal knob such thatsaid suction cup is drawn towards said dome until said dome abuts saidsuction cup substantially tightly; and a reversible shaft-locking meansfor alternatively preventing and allowing rotation of the rod about itslongitudinal axis.
 11. The subcombination apparatus of claim 10, furthercomprising cordage descending vertically from the rod and attaching toone or more separate objects that a person desires to adjustably mountto or suspend from a surface via said subcombination apparatus, saidcordage having an effective length corresponding to a distance betweenthe hanger and the one or more separate objects.
 12. The subcombinationapparatus of claim 11, further comprising an adjustment means foradjusting the effective length of the cordage, the adjustment meanscomprising two spools, one of said spools residing near each of two endsof the rod, where each of said spools is attached to an end portion ofthe cordage.
 13. The subcombination apparatus of claim 10, wherein thedome further comprises a means for gripping said suction cup when saiddome abuts said suction cup,
 14. The subcombination apparatus of claim13, wherein said means for gripping comprises a series of teethprojecting from a rim of said dome.
 15. The subcombination apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein the reversible shaft-locking means comprises a plugattached to the rod and a plug receptor attached to the block of theconnector element, wherein the plug receptor is shaped complementary tothe plug, such that sliding an end of the rod towards the plug receptorcauses the plug to engage the plug receptor and thereby preventsrotation of the rod about its longitudinal axis when the plug attachedthereto is engaged with the plug receptor, and such that sliding saidend of the rod away from the plug receptor causes the plug to disengagefrom the plug receptor and thereby permits rotation of the rod about itslongitudinal axis.
 16. The subcombination apparatus of claim 15, furthercomprising a spring, a portion of the rod passing through thelongitudinal axial center of said spring, wherein a first end of saidspring abuts an inside surface of said substantially hollow area of saidblock and a second end of said spring abuts the plug, such that saidspring directs force from the inside edge of said substantially hollowarea of said block to the plug, thereby pushing the plug towards theplug receptor.
 17. The subcombination apparatus of claim 10, furthercomprising a reversible dowel-locking means for alternatively preventingand allowing rotation of the dowel about its longitudinal axis, saiddowel-locking means comprising a plug attached to the dowel near theproximal end of the dowel and a plug receptor attached to the liftblock, wherein the plug receptor is shaped complementary to the plug,such that closing the lever of the lever assembly pushes the plugreceptor of the lift block against the plug of the dowel causing theplug to engage the plug receptor and thereby preventing rotation of thedowel about its longitudinal axis, and such that opening the lever ofthe lever assembly disengages the plug from the plug receptor andthereby permits rotation of the dowel about its longitudinal axis. 18.The subcombination apparatus of claim 10, further comprising one or moresleeves extending laterally outwards from the one ore more apertures insaid block and projecting parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rod,wherein said sleeves comprise a hollow interior that effectively extendssaid substantially hollow area of said block such that said sleevessubstantially surround and stabilize the rod of which a portion ishoused inside said substantially hollow area of said block.